After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias. John 6:1
More than 200 meters below sea level, the Sea of Galilee is the lowest freshwater lake in the world. This interesting body of water is not large, in comparison with some of the lakes in Canada, only 21 kilometers long and 13 kilometers across, but it is extremely important in many ways. There is a thriving fishing industry on that lake, and has been at least since the days when Peter, Andrew, James, John, and Zebedee did business there. Fertile field along its shores and a fertile plain nearby make it important for many different crops. There is also a thriving tourism industry, as pilgrims come and visit the sites where Jesus walked, taught, and healed. Water from the lake is piped to other parts of Israel, and makes up a large percentage of the nation’s drinking water. Most of us have never seen that lake, and probably won’t in our lifetimes. But today we owe a great deal to that lake for all the great contribution to Scripture from the events that transpired on its surface and shores.
It was water from Galilee that flowed in the Jordan River where Jesus was baptized. From this great event we learn that Jesus fulfilled all righteousness (Matthew 3:15). It was in the meadows beside Galilee where Jesus fed five thousand men beside women and children. From this great event, we learn that Jesus is all-sufficient. On this very lake, Jesus walked on water. From this great event, we learn the simplicity and power of faith, as we hear Peter’s cry for salvation – Lord save me! That same lake, whipped into a fierce storm, threatened the disciples’ lives until Jesus’ rebuke restored it to a millpond calm. From that great event, we learn the submission of the elements to His will and the truth of His delight to protect and comfort His own. A mountainside within sight of Galilee was the venue for the greatest sermon of all time, as hundreds, if not thousands, sat spellbound by His teaching and doctrine. From this great event, we learn the truths of the Kingdom.
Lessons that Jesus taught and showed in and around Galilee are still being learned today as we read and appreciate their preservation in the Word of God. How thankful we should be that Jesus went over the Sea of Galilee. -Jim MacIntosh